THE LEAFLET

Funded through a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant, the Environmental Quality Testing Lab at the University of the District of Columbia in Van Ness is offering free soil quality testing for homes and community gardens through June 26. D.C. residents must apply, and will then be contacted to schedule a soil sampling time. The usually-costly analysis, done by undergraduate and graduate students at the lab, will measure macro nutrients and environmental trace metals including lead and arsenic.

Knowing the nutrient content of your garden’s soil will help you understand what plants will have the best chance for growth and survival.

Find more information and apply to the program here.